Ceramic or China - Asian Men Carrying a Basket

I came across this set, in a Goodwill Store (and bought it) and had to share it, because I have never seen anything like it.

Has anyone seen anything like this? I'm not sure what it is-- a planter? The figures stand roughly 8" tall, and the basket is about 4-1/2" tall with a 5" diameter. Judging by the level of detail, it's a high-quality set. The poles are probably mahogany with brass connector sleeves. The bottom of the basket has a tag that says "Hand-Painted Lenwile," and the maker's name, Ardalt Artware, Japan.

I have searched through other Ardalt pieces, but haven't found anything even close. Most of the Ardalt stuff is multicolored, where this set is all ivory-colored.

I hope the pictures do it justice.